Pfizer launches free med program for newly unemployed

Pfizer Inc. has announced the launch of a new program to help some people who have lost or lose their jobs and health insurance in 2009 get their medications free for one year. The program, called MAINTAIN™ (Medicines Assistance for Those who Are in Need), was actually proposed by Pfizer employees.

Eligibility requirements of the new program include:

• Loss of employment since January 1, 2009
• Prescribed and taking a Pfizer medicine for at least 3 months prior to becoming unemployed and enrolling in the program
• Lack of prescription drug coverage
• Can attest to financial hardship

The program isn't fully operational yet, but if you're interested in participating in this or any of Pfizer's several medication assistance programs, you can call 1-866-706-2400.

You can also visit Pfizer's Helpful Answers website to see if your medications are covered by any of their programs, as well as get information on partner and industry assistance. (MAINTAIN is not yet added to that site but it will be integrated as soon as possible.)

Pfizer medications commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder include:

• Geodon (ziprasidone)
• Neurontin (gabapentin)
• Xanax (alprazolam)
• Zoloft (sertraline)

Some less frequently prescribed bipolar medications in the program are Halcion (triazolam), Nardil (phenelzine), Navane (thiothixine), and Norvasc (amlodipine).

For more on MAINTAIN, see Pfizer Launches Free Medicines Program For Newly Unemployed Americans. Here is a list of other financial assistance programs.